HEALTH ENCYCLOPEDIA

Cor Pulmonale

What is cor pulmonale?

Cor pulmonale is a condition that most commonly arises out of complications
from high blood pressure in the pulmonary arteries (pulmonary
hypertension). It’s also known as right-sided heart failure because it
occurs within the right ventricle of your heart. Cor pulmonale causes the
right ventricle to enlarge and pump blood less effectively than it
should. The ventricle is then pushed to its limit and ultimately fails.

This condition is often prevented when the high pressure of blood going to
the lungs is controlled. However, untreated pulmonary hypertension can
eventually lead to cor pulmonale along with other related, life-threatening
complications.

Symptoms
of cor pulmonale

The symptoms of cor pulmonale may not be noticeable at first because they’re
similar to the feelings you get after a hard workout. They include:

shortness of breath

tiredness

an increased heart rate

lightheadedness

Over time, these symptoms will worsen and flare up even during periods of
rest.

Tell your doctor immediately if you have any of the following symptoms:

chest pain

leg or feet swelling

fainting

excessive coughing

wheezing

excessive fatigue

Causes
of cor pulmonale

The lungs depend on the heart to transport blood from the body to the lungs.
Pulmonary hypertension is a type of increased pressure in your lungs’ arteries
and your heart’s right ventricle. It’s a result of having to overcome the high
pressure in the lungs to force blood into them. This increased pressure causes
an ineffective transportation of blood to the lungs. Untreated pulmonary
hypertension is the most common cause of cor pulmonale. Other conditions that
can cause this health complication include:

Diagnosing
cor pulmonale

Cor pulmonale is diagnosed using both a physical exam and medical testing.
Your doctor will look for any abnormal heart rhythms, fluid retention, and
protruding neck veins during a physical exam.

Your doctor will also need to perform blood tests to detect antibody levels
and brain natriuretic peptide. Brain natriuretic peptide is an amino acid made
in the heart. It’s also secreted from the heart when the heart is stressed.

In rare cases, your doctor may also order a lung biopsy to see if any
underlying tissue is damaged.

Treating
pulmonary hypertension and cor pulmonale

Your doctor will need to treat the causes of pulmonary hypertension to treat
cor pulmonale. Prescription medications can help decrease blood pressure and
help encourage oxygen flow back into the lungs. Diuretics may also be used to
get rid of fluid retention and to keep your blood sodium levels down. You may
also take blood thinners to prevent blood clots.

Severe or advanced cases of cor pulmonale require more aggressive treatments
such as a heart or lung transplant. Others may need to take oxygen therapy.

Outlook
for people with cor pulmonale

The outlook for people with cor pulmonale ultimately depends on the
management of pulmonary hypertension. Cor pulmonale can also cause severe fluid
retention, difficulty breathing, and even shock. It’s life-threatening when
it’s not treated.

Talk to your doctor if you notice any changes in the way you feel,
especially if you’re currently being treated for pulmonary hypertension. Your
doctor may need to adjust your treatment plan to help prevent cor pulmonale.

Lifestyle
changes

You can prevent cor pulmonale by taking care of your heart and lungs.
Maintain a healthy weight, exercise, and eat a well-balanced diet to avoid
hypertension and heart disease.

Preventing the onset of lung disease may also help prevent this condition.
Smoking cigarettes can damage the lungs and eventually lead to cor pulmonale.

This feature is for informational purposes only and should not be used to replace the care and information received from your health care provider. Please consult a health care professional with any health concerns you may have.